[340] Demon
Glimpsing at the trembling Deathabyss, August chose not to pursue the matter further.
However, he felt a deep sense of disappointment toward the demons of this world. The demon race had fallen into a state of disarray, largely due to their pathological fixation on contracts. In the original story, it was mentioned that if a male were to propose to a female demon with the words "I will make you happy," she would turn into a lazy partner, waiting for him to provide her happiness. This led to female demons being labeled as "domestic abuse victims," "self-centered," and "unreasonable."
These labels contributed to the demon race's poor reputation; no one wanted to marry someone who acted like an ancestor.
Just then, Laura descended from the sky.
Most of the crowd seemed indifferent, but her demon wings caught everyone's attention.
Especially Deathabyss, who sensed a magical aura from the maid that matched her own power, indicating that this maid was her equal.
"Your Highness, all the magical beasts have been delivered to the Shadow Realm," Laura reported.
"Understood. I'll take them there now," August replied, opening the passage between the Shadow Realm and the small world. In mere moments, numerous magical and aquatic beast carcasses were transferred to the small world, consumed entirely by the sapling of the World Tree without leaving a trace.
"Who are you, my lady?" the green-skinned demon asked Laura with utmost caution.
"I am Laura, the head maid serving His Highness," she responded.
"And this gentleman is...?"
"His Highness is the current leader of the House of Demon. Is there a problem?"
"No, no!" he exclaimed, waving his hands nervously. It was impossible for there to be an issue here.
The House of Demon, named after the 'Demon God' itself, was no ordinary race. Their strength was formidable, effortlessly subduing the Demon King, and with such a powerful high-ranking demon at their side, they undoubtedly belonged to an ancient family. The disdain Laura displayed toward the Demon King suggested she might even have come from the chaotic era of old.
In that chaotic time, the demon race was at its peak, holding significant power in this world. However, with the advent of peace, the demons' influence waned considerably.
Deathabyss cast a puzzled glance at August. She had never heard of the House of Demon, but she knew it was anything but simple.
"Enough. I don't care about the current state of the demon race. You can leave now," August declared.
"My lord, we're in election season. If you could support the Demon King, then…"
"I said I'm not interested. Do you not understand?"
"Y-Yes, I spoke out of turn," he stammered, slapping himself on the cheek, leaving those around him in shock.
Even Deathabyss remained silent; she had no desire to experience that feeling of utter defeat again.
August had no intention of getting involved in this world, especially since this year was a pivotal moment for that faction—it had nothing to do with him.
With that, August turned to leave, and Laura followed closely behind. Stunk and the others exchanged glances before trailing after them, leaving only Deathabyss and the green-skinned demon behind.
"Demon King, are you alright?" the green-skinned demon asked.
"I'm fine, but that man is terrifying. For a moment, I genuinely thought I would die," Deathabyss confessed.
"My Lady, I suspect he might be a powerful figure from the chaotic era."
"Hmm? The chaotic era?" she asked, intrigued.
"It's nothing. During the chaotic era, Demon Kings were revered for their strength; power was everything. The rulers ruled with iron fists, and people from that era wouldn't recognize the current Demon King."
"That's quite possible. I need to look up ancient texts about the House of Demon when I return," Deathabyss mused, feeling a mix of heaviness and excitement. If she could bring such a deity into the demon race, their voice in the world would surely soar.
"So, Demon King, where shall we go next? Should we continue the campaign?"
"No, we'll return and investigate him thoroughly. Then, we'll figure out how to win him over," she instructed.
"Yes, Demon King," the green-skinned demon replied.
The two then soared into the sky, heading towards the direction of the demon race.
Meanwhile, on the way to the tavern, the atmosphere was tense. August's demeanor just moments ago felt like two entirely different individuals.
"August, who on earth are you? You seemed even more powerful than the Demon King just now," Stunk remarked, incredulous.
"What does it matter? Here, I'm just the manager of a magical beast shop," August replied nonchalantly.
"That's true; we're comrades, after all," Stunk added, chuckling.
"Get out of my way! I prefer beautiful women over old men," August teased.
"Who's old? I'm a dashing young man in my prime!" Stunk protested.
"Do you actually believe that?"
"Indeed, you jerk! I still want to beat you up!"
As their banter unfolded, the previously serious atmosphere dissipated entirely.
Both Stunk and Jer laughed, realizing that perhaps this was the essence of friendship: disregarding status and power, they simply enjoyed each other's company.
Laura observed, puzzled. Why did August seem so invested in this ordinary human and elf? Neither had any power or background; they were just perverts who frequented the succubus shop. What could make August care so much about them?
It was a simple yet absurd reason: they had shared a moment together when they first arrived, and that was it.
They were comrades in mischief, hence they were friends.
Soon, the group arrived at the tavern, with Laura heading back to the shop.
The tavern was bustling today, but unlike usual, Meidri didn't seem too busy.
This was because a new face had joined them: Lachnela. She had found the treant shop owner early that morning and quickly integrated herself into the establishment.
With her presence, the atmosphere in the shop lightened significantly.
Moreover, since Lachnela belonged to the Alakne tribe, many curious patrons flocked to the tavern just to catch a glimpse of her.
Serendipitously, thanks to Lachnela, the Alakne tribe's reputation in the small town began to improve.
Originally, they were not well-received due to their association with spider mothers, but things had certainly changed for the better now.
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